PORTSMOUTH, Va. - — The area's first casino opens up in January.
Rivers Casino Portsmouth officials announced Monday that they will open their doors to the community on Sunday, Jan. 15, at 3 p.m.
The $340 million gaming and entertainment venue is part of a planned Entertainment District along Victory Boulevard — just south of I-264.
The Virginia Lottery Board unanimously approved the casino's operator’s license on November 16.
Rush Street Gaming, owners, and operators of the casino broke ground back in December 2021.
Portsmouth voters approved the casino being built in November 2020.
“We’re grateful to the Virginia Lottery Board, the City of Portsmouth, and the Hampton Roads community for their continued support,” said Tim Drehkoff, CEO, Rush Street Gaming. “It’s been exciting to watch the building go up, and we’re eager for the public to see what’s inside.”
Rivers Casino Portsmouth will feature 1,448 slot machines, 57 table games, and 24 poker tables in a dedicated poker room.
The casino is also bringing ten new restaurants. If you're more interested in what you can eat and drink, here are seven of the restaurants that you can expect:
- Admiral’s Steak and Seafood
- Mian
- Slice Pizzeria
- Crossings Cafe
- Starbucks
- Topgolf Swing Suite
- BetRivers Sportsbook
Topgolf Swing Suites will overlook the BetRivers Sportsbook and it is said to be the largest high-def screen in Hampton Roads to watch local, regional, and international sporting events.
According to the casino's owners, the Event Center will host weddings and galas, conventions and expos, meetings and conferences and headline performers. The Sound Bar, an intimate stage and lounge area, will host local bands, DJs, and more.
If you want to sign up for Rivers Casino Portsmouth’s Rush Rewards Players Club advance click here. The rewards program will allow gamers to earn rewards such as free play, amenity and food comps, prizes, and more.
“In the coming weeks, we’ll remain laser-focused on continued hiring and training efforts — ensuring our team is ready to deliver a first-rate customer experience when our doors open in January,” said Roy Corby, general manager of Rivers Casino Portsmouth.
Rivers Casino Portsmouth will employ 1,300 team members and will continue to fill positions in the weeks leading up to the opening. They had a job fair in June. However, job seekers are encouraged to visit the website to apply.
For more information, click here.
Related: Norfolk is opening its first casino, who is the Native American tribe behind it?